Chairs for the living room and dining room need to do more than look good. They’re used every day, often moved around and should suit the size of your room, your table and the way you like to sit. Whether you’re looking for dining chairs, kitchen chairs, living room chairs or a single reading chair, choosing carefully can help you avoid buying the wrong thing and incurring unnecessary costs later on.
Scandinavian chairs, velvet chairs and designs with wooden legs can look right at home in all sorts of rooms in product photos. But what matters is whether the seat height and depth work with your table. If the seat is too low, you may end up sitting awkwardly. If it’s too high, you won’t have enough legroom.
Before buying, measure the distance between the floor and the underside of the table top. For dining and kitchen chairs, it’s also worth checking whether the armrests will fit under the table.
A stated maximum static load doesn’t automatically cover every situation you might encounter in everyday use. Chairs should be placed on a level surface and shouldn’t be used as steps or a ladder. If a chair needs assembling, you may also need to tighten the screws regularly.
Check for:
Upholstered chairs, velvet chairs and chairs with faux leather covers can all require different levels of care. Smooth surfaces can usually be cleaned with a slightly damp cloth. Fabric covers, on the other hand, may be more sensitive to spills, rubbing and unsuitable cleaning products.
Before buying, check whether the covers are removable, what washing temperature to use and whether the manufacturer advises against particular cleaning products.
For a dining chair, seat height, seat width and seat depth are the key measurements. For example, according to the product details, the WOLTU chairs in the recommended set have a 48 cm seat height, a 48 cm seat width and a 40.5 cm seat depth. Compare these measurements with your table height and body size.
A slightly curved backrest can support your back, but it won’t replace an individual ergonomic fit. If you’ll be working for long periods, a chair specifically designed for ergonomic use, with adjustable features, is often a better choice than a standard dining chair.
When you see claims about sustainability and safety, distinguish between general marketing statements and specific certifications or standards. The WOLTU model is described as using FSC-certified wood. The product details also refer to compliance with EU REACH requirements and the EN 12520 standard. Always check these claims against the information on the relevant product page.
Measure not only the space the chair takes up, but also the room you’ll need to move around it. In a dining room, you’ll need enough clearance from the table and walls. A rocking chair needs extra space in front and behind it for the curved runners. A reading chair with armrests is better suited to an open corner than a narrow walkway.
For families and frequent use, wipe-clean surfaces, sturdy feet and clear load capacity information are particularly important. If you’re buying a set of two chairs, check that both have the same dimensions and features.
Why this product suits this buyer: This set of two chairs is a good fit for smaller dining areas and kitchens, or as extra seating. Each chair measures 48 × 42 × 82 cm, making it easier to plan your space before buying.
The product details list the seat dimensions, a maximum static load of 150 kg and pre-fitted, noise-reducing foot pads. This makes it easier to check the key buying criteria before you order.
Two chairs per pack, a PP backrest, a PU faux leather seat and FSC-certified wooden legs, according to the product description.
Why this product suits this buyer: This upholstered accent chair is designed for living rooms, bedrooms, reception areas or a reading nook. Its generous overall dimensions of 86.9 × 72.1 × 69.9 cm should be checked against the space available.
The product description lists the materials, dimensions, package contents and assembly requirements. This can help you avoid buying a decorative chair without enough space to position or assemble it.
Velvet upholstery, solid wooden legs and an armless design. According to the product details, the cover can be cleaned using the recommended care method.
Why this product suits this buyer: This rocking chair is for anyone looking to create a dedicated spot for reading, relaxing or feeding a baby in the living room or bedroom.
It’s described as a rocking chair with an adjustable footrest. Allow for its dimensions of 121.5 × 65 × 84 cm and follow the assembly instructions.
The footrest has five positions, the cotton cover is removable and the stated maximum load capacity is 150 kg.
We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations in force in the EU.
A seat height of around 45 to 48 cm is common for many dining chairs. What matters most, though, is the distance from the table top. Measure the table height, seat height and legroom together before ordering.
Lifespan depends on how the chair is used, the load it bears, its materials, how it’s assembled and how well it’s cared for. If you use it every day, check the screw fixings regularly and clean any soiled covers according to the manufacturer’s instructions. It isn’t possible to give a reliable general lifespan without specific product and usage details.
Chairs with wooden legs can work well for families if their load capacity, stability and care requirements suit everyday life. Also check whether the feet protect your floor and whether the chair is placed on a level surface. Children shouldn’t use chairs as climbing aids.